Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers will return to pitch after 22-month hiatus on April 12. Not only is his return significant as an MLB pitcher’s debut for them; also it marks an exciting momentous occasion as this Dodgers squad holds onto first place with 43 wins (43 29 for San Francisco Giants 43 30), having performed admirably with an 8-4 run over their last ten games including one win against them this Sunday alone! The anticipation surrounding this momentous occasion cannot be understated!
A Much-Awaited Comeback on the Mound
Ohtani’s journey back to pitching has been both difficult and inspiring. Undergoing second surgery on his ulnar collateral ligament 21 months ago, Ohtani has shown courage, resilience and dedication on the road back from recovery. In his inaugural season with the Dodgers as full-time designated hitter he not only earned MVP status but made history by recording 50 homers and 50 stolen bases in just one season; an unexpected labrum tear necessitating surgery, further delaying Ohtani’s comeback; but in March he resumed throwing with diligent work towards his return resumption.
Dave Roberts of the Los Angeles Dodgers recently noted Ohtani is fully prepared and poised for another MLB pitching role on Friday against San Diego Padres, an expected exciting game featuring him pitching an inning or two as an important milestone of recovery and return to dual-threat status. It will mark yet another step along his road back and reveal both Ohtani’s perseverance as well as how quickly this three-time MVP might return as full time starting pitcher of Los Angeles Dodgers starting rotations.